Almost $800,000 To Be Given To Volunteer Fire Companies

Close to $800,000 will be given to benefit volunteer firefighters in 36 Northampton County municipalities, according to the state auditor general's office.

The funds, created by Act 205 of 1984, come from revenue generated by the state's 2 percent gross premiums tax on fire insurance premiums collected by insurers not based in Pennsylvania.

A formula based on the municipal population and market value of real estate in the municipality determines the funds allocated. The funds must be distributed within 60 days to the firemen's relief groups in the municipality.

The money is used to buy protective equipment, insurance, and to pay medical and disability benefits.